Vigil with Mary: Youth Celebrate Mama Mary’s Birthday with Hope and Devotion

With the theme “Called to Hope: Celebrating Mama Mary’s Birthday,” the Immaculate Conception Parish Youth Apostolate (ICPYA) core group spearheaded this year’s Vigil with Mary on the eve of September 7, drawing parishioners and youth together in prayer, reflection, and joyful celebration.

The activity began at 7:00 p.m., with the Pangulo sa mga Batan-on, all youth of the Immaculate Conception Parish, GKK Servant Leaders, and the Parish Vocation Promoters joining the event.

The evening opened with Vocation Stories led by Rev. Fr. Ronald Arcillas, DCD, Vocation Director of the Archdiocese of Davao. Fourteen religious brothers, sisters, and priests from various congregations shared their journeys of faith, recounting how Mama Mary’s intercession guided them in responding to God’s call. The youth eagerly listened, asked questions, and were deeply inspired by the testimonies. This marked the second year that the Vigil featured vocation sharing, an experience that continues to touch and encourage young hearts to discern their own paths.

Following the sharings, the community entered into a Taizé Prayer until midnight. The solemn chants, candlelight, and moments of silence invited everyone into a deep encounter with God. Many youth expressed feelings of peace, healing, and renewed strength, while others found comfort and clarity in the stillness of prayer. The vigil continued with the Holy Rosary, praying the four mysteries with special intentions for the youth, families, and the parish community.

At 3:00 a.m., a brief downpour stirred worry about the Marian Procession. Yet, as if in answer to prayer, the skies cleared just in time, allowing the faithful to walk joyfully with Mary through the streets. Parishioners lit candles outside their homes as the image of Mary passed by, a moving reminder of the strong devotion that continues to live in the community.

The procession culminated with a Mañanita and floral offering, honoring Mary on her birthday. The celebration reached its peak with the Holy Mass, presided by Rev. Fr. Zenon Ampong, DCD, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Samuel Ma. Carandang, OATH. In his homily, Fr. Zenon reflected on Mary’s “Fiat”, her courageous yes to God, and her song of thanksgiving, the Magnificat, reminding everyone of the importance of trust, humility, and gratitude in their own lives.

The Vigil with Mary was more than just a parish tradition; it was a vibrant testimony of faith, unity, and hope. It reminded the youth and the whole community that Mary continues to lead them closer to Christ, especially in moments of uncertainty and challenge. (Roy Felix T. Abrio)